Each year, National Police Week recognizes the officers who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving communities across the country. Maritime policing is unique to law enforcement, so the fact that National Police Week falls within Maritime Month makes this week hold even more significance for the women and men of the New Orleans Harbor Police Department (HPD).

The HPD team is an elite force – our officers lead with integrity to get the job done and I am immensely proud to lead such an outstanding group of law enforcement professionals.

At HPD, our mission is to protect critical infrastructure and Louisiana’s largest international gateway, the Port of New Orleans. HPD officers patrol on land throughout our 23-mile three-parish jurisdiction, but they also oversee the waterside activities on the Mississippi River from mile marker 82.1-115 within Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard parishes. We also work closely local, state and federal agencies on a number of coordinated responses to ensure the safety of our community.

I salute our HPD team and commend your hard work, diligence, and bravery as you uphold our motto to serve with Honor, Pride, and Dedication each and every day. Your efforts are deeply appreciated, not only this week, but also every day throughout the year.

As we plan for the future, HPD is committed to attracting and retaining the best talent in maritime law enforcement. Currently, our force includes more than 40 commissioned officers who continually strive to serve their community and protect the Port’s gateway. We are looking for more officers to join our ranks, as well as to fill civilian roles within our administrative and communications departments that support officers in the field.

If you’re interested in a career with HPD, visit our website at www.HPDnola.com to learn more about open positions, qualifications and to apply.

Chief Melanie Montroll